The controversial Recall function of Microsoftdesigned to track user activity on Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs, has been further delayed. Originally scheduled to launch with these new laptops in June, Recall has raised significant privacy concerns due to its extensive tracking capabilities.
In response to criticism, Microsoft decided to change Recall from a default to an opt-in feature, adding enhanced security measures. However, this move wasn’t enough. On June 13, the company announced that Recall would be removed from the initial launch of Copilot+ PCs and instead released as a preview within the Windows Insider Program (WIP).
Today’s update further extends the wait for public access to Recall. Originally scheduled to be available “in the coming weeks” for WIP users, the preview has now been pushed back to October. This delay suggests that Microsoft is still working to fix security issues and refine the feature with input from the Insider community.
The declaration of Microsoft reads: “With a commitment to providing a reliable and secure Recall (Preview) experience, we’re sharing an update that Recall will be available to Windows Insiders starting in October.”
This approach is in line with the previous strategy of Microsoft to use the Insider Program to test potentially risky features. Data miners discovered new hidden Recall features in a Canary Channel build of Windows 11 in June, indicating ongoing development. These early clues suggest further iterations—potentially with more privacy and security improvements—before Recall is available to WIP users.
The official release date for Recall for the general Copilot+ user base remains uncertain. With the October Insider Preview, it could still be several months before the feature becomes widely available for Windows 11. This extended delay reflects the cautious approach of Microsoftas the company aims to address privacy concerns and ensure a secure rollout ahead of the wider launch.